Digging Deeper Into Role Bugs Play in Environment
Eric Galatas, Producer
Thursday, September 14, 2017
SALT LAKE CITY – Insects don't get the respect they deserve, but author David MacNeal is highlighting their importance and diversity in his new book, "Bugged: The Insects Who Rule the World and the People Obsessed with Them."
MacNeal says bugs aren't living in our world – we're living in theirs. There are 1.4 billion bugs for every human on Earth.
Recently, views of one insect in particular, bees, have changed and more people recognize their importance.
Utah beekeepers understand their value. In 2016, bee colonies produced a honey crop worth nearly $2 million.
But MacNeal says other bugs are vital to our economy as well.
“These two entomologists calculated, 'OK, besides pollination, what other services do insects provide?'” he relates. “And they put that number around $57 billion (a year).
“However, the incalculable figure was decomposition – recycling nutrients. I mean, who knows how much that would cost.”
MacNeal says the work of beetles and other insects in processing dead matter and rejuvenating soil is perhaps the most crucial and overlooked role bugs play. It's especially crucial for people who work on the land.
MacNeal describes bugs as bio-indicators for the planet. In other words, when we look at the health of insects, we can understand how the environment is doing.
"The more we look at them – which we are now, more so than ever – the better chances of future generations actually casting aside their aversion and appreciating insects as this kind of gateway to nature - really, this mediator between man and nature," he states.
MacNeal says bugs could play an even more vital role in the future, possibly becoming widespread as snacks because they're a good source of protein.
Medicine, too, could benefit. MacNeal says there is research into the use of scorpion venom in the treatment of brain tumors.
get more stories like this via email
Health and Wellness
A recent report examined how some rural Tennessee hospitals have managed to stay afloat despite financial challenges. The report includes interviews …
Social Issues
Earlier this month, a new Arizona Public Service rate hike went into effect and one senior advocacy group said those on a fixed income may struggle …
Social Issues
Michigan recently implemented a significant juvenile justice reform package following recommendations from a task force made up of prosecutors…
Social Issues
A mix of policy updates and staffing boosts has helped to put wage theft enforcement on the radar in Minnesota, and officials leading the efforts are …
Social Issues
Colorado is working to boost the state's agricultural communities by getting more fresh, nutritious foods into school cafeterias - and a new online …
Social Issues
Missouri lawmakers are concerned with protecting people from the potential risks of the increasing accessibility of AI-generated images and videos…